What Is Melamine Furniture?

Melamine furniture basically are pieces of furniture constructed of wood that then is covered with sheets of melamine, providing smooth and sleek surfaces. This type of furniture rose to popularity during the 1950s and '60s, providing an affordable way to decorate a home with durable and fashionable tables, chairs, desk, cabinets and accessories.

How It Works

Melamine is a thermosetting plastic resin combined with formaldehyde and hardened by a heating process. It is applied to a hard substrate such as wood or particleboard to make melamine furniture. The resin also is used to produce Formica, which once was a big trend in tables and countertops. Melamine comes in a large variety of patterns, colors and sizes.

A Few Precautions

If you are buying new melamine furniture, look for pieces made with formaldehyde-free melamine. Harmful emissions from formaldehyde in older melamine furniture, or in pieces made in less-regulated countries, can cause health issues. If possible, seal the melamine edges and surfaces with an encapsulating sealer before bringing the furniture into your home.

About the Author

Wendy K. Leigh is a travel writer and photojournalist from Seattle. She is the Editor of Islands America, a travel website for visiting islands within the United States. She also writes about home design, food and historical architecture. Leigh holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Washington.